Netherlands on the cusp of welcoming first openly gay Prime Minister, Rob Jetten
The Netherlands is on the cusp of a historic political shift as Rob Jetten, leader of the centrist-liberal D66 (Democrats 66) party, prepares to become the country’s first openly gay prime minister and the youngest to ever hold the office at 38 years old.
Jetten’s rise follows a dramatic election outcome in October 2025 in which D66 secured a surprise victory over far-right leader Geert Wilders and his Party for Freedom. Despite polling that suggested Wilders would dominate, Jetten’s party outperformed expectations, especially in major cities, securing enough seats to lead coalition talks.
Initial coalition negotiations were lengthy, but by late January 2026, D66, along with the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) and the liberal People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), reached an agreement in principle to form a minority government, an uncommon arrangement in Dutch politics. Together, the parties hold 66 seats, ten short of a majority. Even so, the agreement positions Jetten as the Netherlands’ next prime minister, with formal approval expected in the weeks ahead.
Jetten has stated that the new government will prioritise affordable housing, migration management and defence investment, signalling a pragmatic approach that blends social liberalism with centrist economic and immigration policy.
Jetten’s appointment is deeply symbolic. Though the Netherlands has long been recognised for its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights - including being the first country to legalise same-sex marriage - this will be the first time the nation is led by an openly gay prime minister. Notably, Jetten has emphasised that while his sexuality is not central to his political message, his victory demonstrates that socially liberal politics can prevail against the rise of right‑wing populism.
He has spoken openly about the significance of offering a positive political alternative, telling reporters that his campaign shows “it is possible to beat populist movements if you campaign with a positive message for your country.”
Jetten’s personal life has also featured prominently in public interest. He is engaged to Nico Keenan, an Argentine-born bisexual Olympic hockey player, with the couple planning to marry next year. Their visibility - often highlighted through public appearances and social media - has contributed to their status as one of Europe’s most watched same-sex political couples.
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